Human Dimensions of Ecological Restoration: Integrating Science, Nature, and Culture

by Dave Egan (Editor), Evan E. Hjerpe (Editor), Jesse Abrams (Editor)

When it comes to implementing successful ecological restoration projects, the social, political, economic, and cultural dimensions are often as important as-and sometimes more important than-technical or biophysical knowledge.

Human Dimensions of Ecological Restoration takes an interdisciplinary look at the myriad human aspects of ecological restoration. In twenty-six chapters written by experts from around the world, it provides practical and theoretical information, analysis, models, and guidelines for optimizing human involvement in restoration projects. Six categories of social activities are

collaboration between land manager and stakeholdersecological economicsvolunteerism and community-based restorationenvironmental educationecocultural and artistic practicespolicy and politicsFor each category, the book offers an introductory theoretical chapter followed by multiple case studies, each of which focuses on a particular aspect of the category and provides a perspective from within a unique social/political/cultural setting.

Human Dimensions of Ecological Restoration delves into the often-neglected aspects of ecological restoration that ultimately make the difference between projects that are successfully executed and maintained with the support of informed, engaged citizens, and those that are unable to advance past the conceptual stage due to misunderstandings or apathy. The lessons contained will be valuable to restoration veterans and greenhorns alike, scholars and students in a range of fields, and individuals who care about restoring their local lands and waters.

414 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 16, 2011

Reviews

[Tomek · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ecological restoration texts too often casually mention the importance and implications of considering social systems in restoration, be they economic, cultural, educational, or political. This book places a critical lens on why it is important to do so, how it can be done, and the consequences of doing (or not doing) it. I enjoyed this unique perspective on restoration and found many of the essays to be fascinating and critical for planning, implementing, and monitoring restoration projects successfully. However, others seemed to lack rigor or were merely parroting what others have said in slightly different ways or contexts. Many often waxed poetic about the philosophy of restoration, which, granted is important, but then failed to follow it up without considerations of how this could be applied to specific ethical or practical frameworks for restoration.